Home for the Holidays

By Rebecca Hendrixson

Photography by Rebecca Hendrixson

“Home for the Holidays” is more than just a phrase at the Cincinnati Ronald McDonald House. Families from throughout Ohio, across the United States, and from around the world come to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center seeking life-saving treatment for their critically ill children. The Ronald McDonald House is a beautiful, spacious, and welcoming retreat to find rest, nutrition, and support during difficult days. The Ronald McDonald House cares for 78 guest families every night, providing them with a “home away from home” while their children receive medical treatment.

On December 7, Santa, Ronald McDonald, friends, volunteers, staff, and guest families enjoyed a holiday party to remember. Delicious food, festivities, music, and plenty of fun activities for kids of all ages (even those simply young at heart) were in abundance on an unseasonably balmy winter evening. The Ronald McDonald House was spectacularly decorated with thousands of lights and holiday decor, magical trains and villages, and numerous twinkling trees. A penguin from the Cincinnati Zoo also made an official appearance.

Volunteers clad in elf hats and reindeer antlers were available for serving food, answering questions, and giving guided tours of the massive, yet cozy house. Over 350 Guest Services volunteers assist families, work at the front desk, provide administrative assistance, clean guest rooms, and give graciously of their time and compassion to this amazing home.

A special thank you to Macy’s for their generous sponsorship for this year’s Home for the Holidays party.